Baker Salary in Wilmington, NC
Bakers in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $15.51 per hour, which translates to about $620.40 per week, $2,688.40 per month, and $32,260.80 per year.
The job demand for Bakers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and promising opportunities for those entering this profession.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Baker in Wilmington can vary based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides a general idea across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,429.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.51 | $620.40 | $2,681.60 | $32,260.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.24 | $729.60 | $3,145.60 | $37,939.20 |
Do Bakers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work primarily happens behind the scenes preparing baked goods rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings mostly depend on their hourly wage or salary.
Baker Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.80 per hour, corresponding to about $34,944 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bakers in Wilmington earn slightly less, at about $15.51 per hour and $32,260.80 annually. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Bakers
Nearby areas offer slightly different salaries for Bakers:
- Downtown Wilmington: $16.50 per hour
- Mayfaire: $17.00 per hour
Those working in Mayfaire can expect to earn a bit more compared to Downtown Wilmington, reflecting perhaps the local business environment and clientele.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors affect how much a Baker can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with more years of experience or specialized skills such as pastry arts tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bakeries, hotels, or specialty shops usually offers better pay than chain grocery stores or fast casual outlets.
- Certifications and Education: Having baking-related credentials or culinary education can boost a Baker’s salary.
- Shift and Work Hours: Some shifts may offer differential pay, especially early morning or weekend hours.
- Local Economic Conditions: The area's cost of living and demand for bakery products contribute to wage levels.
How To Become a Baker in Wilmington
To start a career as a Baker in Wilmington, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program offers a comprehensive curriculum in baking and pastry arts, providing hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
- Take Specialized Baking Classes: UNC Wilmington Continuing Education Baking Classes provide short-term courses focusing on various baking techniques and specialties for aspiring Bakers.
- Earn Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is nationally recognized for food safety knowledge, and the Certified Baker credential by Retail Bakers of America can enhance job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a bakery assistant or apprentice allows valuable skill development.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Wilmington
Several well-known companies in Wilmington hire Bakers regularly, including:
- Harris Teeter
- Texas Roadhouse
- Dunkin'
- Port City Java
Establishments That Bakers in Wilmington Work At
Bakers typically find work in diverse types of establishments, such as:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These establishments often pay higher wages due to the expert craftsmanship required.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Bakers in these venues may earn less but benefit from steady demand.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Bakers working in such settings usually receive consistent but moderate pay.
- Hotels and Catering Services: These may offer better compensation and career advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Baker’s income and career progression.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Bakers
If you are interested in careers related to Baking, you might consider these similar positions that share overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef roles, each with distinct but related culinary skills and unique salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Wilmington
Bakers should stay informed regarding labor regulations and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- Information on federal labor statistics and worker rights can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov).
- State-specific employment laws, taxation, and workers’ rights are detailed at the North Carolina government website (nc.gov).